Robotic Toys for Kids
Iron Man, Robosapien and More Robot Toys Your Kids Will Love
Robot toys are hot, thanks to the success of movies such as Iron Man, Star Wars, Toy Story, and Wall-e, and to innovative products such as Wow-Wee Robosapien and others. This high-tech toys can move and react to voice commands or commands from a remote control. Robotic toys are cool! Here are some of the top RC robots and related robotic toys.
(Photo by Lisa Howard)
Everyone Loves Robots!
From "Danger, Will Robinson" to Robosapien
Both kids and adults have been fascinated by robots for years. When I was a kid, we used to watch reruns of "Lost in Space," a 1960s scifi TV series about a family exploring space along with The Robot. The Robot's catchphrase, "Danger, Will Robinson!" became a part of popular culture that is still.
Today's kids are still enthralled by robots, but the amazing robotic creations available in stores today are far more advanced than those available even a few years ago. They can walk, talk, dance and even follow voice commands. If you have kids who are enchanted by robotic toys, here are a few they're sure to enjoy.
(Photo of The Robot from "Lost in Space" by Gryffindor and provided by Wikipedia)
Remote Control R2-D2 - An interactive droid from the movies
R2-D2 and his sidekick C3PO may be some of the best known and most loved droids of all time. Virtually every child will recognize the blue-and-white droid from Star Wars. This R2-D2 robot is controlled by voice and can follow 40 commands, as well as play interactive games and serve as a room alarm. Oh, and if you need a drink, he comes complete with an Intergalactic beverage holder. What more could you want in a droid?
Ultimate Buzz Lightyear Robot - Robot Buzz responds to voice commands
Disney fans will immediately recognize the popular Space Ranger from the "Toy Story" movies. This robotic Buzz Lightyear with voice command responds to phrases such as Space Ranger, Fire Laser, Salute, Star Command and You'e a Toy. He can also turn his head, move his arms and legs, blink his eyes and more.
He responds to several phrases and can turn his head, play back movement of his arms and legs, blink his eyes and more.
LEGO Mindstorm NXT - Put him together and then see what he can do
It's hard to call anything with this price tag a "toy" for kids, but if you've got teens who enjoy building, LEGO's Mindstorm NXT will keep them busy for hours. And they might learn something, too!
Iron Man Walking RC Robot - You can control Iron Man
Iron Man isn't a robot because there's a human inside the suit, but kids will love robotic toys featuring the popular character.
WowWee Robosapien V2 - The new, cooler version of the original remote-controlled robot
The first Robosapien was so popular, it spawned a second version, as well as other spin-offs. Both kids and adults loved making the remote-control robot dance, walk, pick up objects and move around. But V2 is even cooler - and more human. This guy's now got four different walking gaits, the ability to turn his head like us mere mortals, and a fondness for bowling. He will even interact with people and other WowWee robots like Roboraptor or Robopet.
Watch RoboSapien Bowl - Who knew robots enjoyed bowling??
Here's an example of some things the RoboSapien V2 robot can do.
Robotic Pets - You'll never have to feed them!
In case you're allergic to real dogs or cats or would simply prefer a pet you can leave alone when you want to go on a week-long vacation, these robotic creatures may be just want you want. They walk and move their heads and tails, and each one has a few unique features to make them fun for the kids (and adults!).
More RC Robot Toys - Robots for all ages
The toys listed above and popular, but they're certainly not the only options on the market. Here are some other choices you might enjoy.
Robot Movies - Complement the toys with a robot movie on DVD
Wall-e was the top robot movie of 2008, but there are some earlier movies featuring robots that all kids can still enjoy, and these are great stocking stuffers to give along with robot toys. Flicks such as Robots and Iron Giant were both popular when released and are still available on DVD. (See below.) Other movies that are OK for older kids and which feature robots include the 1998 movie Lost in Space, based on the 1960s TV series, and, of course, the entire Star Wars series featuring everyone's favorite robots, R2D2 and C3PO.
Iron Giant DVD - A movie for all ages
I've lost track of how many times I've seen this movie with my son and daughter, but I still don't mind when they watch it. "Iron Giant" is a wonderful story of a robot befriended by a young boy who then tries to hide his huge new friend from his mom and a government agent. It's got some great messages for kids and adults alike. A definite two thumbs up for any robot-lover.
Robotic Toys - Find more option on eBay
eBay is a great place to look for robotic toys and gifts, especially classic and vintage robots, and they often have things that you won't find at the local store.